Iron Man ##281
Marvel Comics • Iron Man Vol. 1
Writer
Len Kaminski
Interior Artist
Kevin Hopgood
Cover Artist
Kevin Hopgood
Publication Date
June 1992
Cover Variant
Regular (Direct Edition)
Printing
First Printing
Comic Description
This issue marks the first full appearance of the Masters of Silence (Inuzuka, Kaminari, and Kaze). The story features Tony Stark dealing with the fallout of the 'War Machine' technological development and facing these lethal high-tech samurai.
Condition & Value
Condition Grade
Very Fine/Near Mint (CGC 9.0)
Condition Details
Minor spine stress visible along the left edge. Slight blunting of the top right corner. The cover gloss appears excellent, and the centering is strong. Some minor surface wear from storage may be present through the bag.
Estimated Market Value
Raw: $20.00 - $35.00; Graded (9.8): $150.00 - $200.00
Recent Sales
Raw copies in similar condition have recently sold between $25 and $40. CGC 9.8 copies have seen recent volatility with sales between $140 and $180.
Grading Recommendation
Potentially worth grading if it can achieve a 9.8 after a professional press. As a key first appearance, high-grade copies command a premium, but a grade below 9.6 may not cover the costs of grading fees.
Notable Features
First full appearance of the Masters of Silence. Features the 'The Amazing Spider-Man' 30th Anniversary corner box logo. This is a Direct Edition copy (as indicated by the graphic in the barcode area).
Authentication Notes
The comic appears authentic with correct color saturation for early 90s Marvel gloss, appropriate corner box art for the era, and standard staple placement for a direct edition copy.